2025 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing

How does the CT5 drive? The CT5-V Blackwing might not be the fastest sedan in the class, but it is the most fun to drive. Our test car was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and we were able to rip to 60 mph in 4 seconds flat and fly through the quarter mile at nearly 124 mph. The optional 10-speed automatic promises to be even quicker. As you'd expect from a large supercharged V8, power is everywhere and the Blackwing is fast no matter what gear you're in. Speaking of gears, the six-speed manual transmission is arguably one of the best manual transmissions on sale today, offering quick, positive shifts with automatic rev matching if you so desire.

Braking and handling are equally as impressive. Panic stops from 60 mph were done in a scant 104 feet and the Cadillac pulled a heroic 1.08 g on our skidpad — both of those numbers best the results of the potent Audi RS 7. The steering feel and performance-oriented stability control systems are better still, allowing the CT5-V to be driven aggressively but with delicacy and precision. Drivers of all skill levels will be impressed and engaged.

For drivers seeking even more performance, the somewhat pricey Precision package offers carbon-ceramic brakes, a stiffer suspension, and a host of other chassis enhancements to transform the Blackwing into a formidable track-day special.

How comfortable is the CT5? One of the hallmarks of the Blackwing is its adaptive suspension, known as MagneRide. Ride quality and body control are deeply impressive, and for all the performance offered up by the Cadillac, the ride is never uncomfortable. Likewise, the front seats manage to balance support and comfort, and we had no issue putting in a full day's worth of driving without an ounce of discomfort. The heated and ventilated seats work quickly and effectively.

The same can be said for the climate control. There was no issue in warming or cooling the cabin quickly. Adding to the comfort is a quiet and well-insulated cabin. You'll have to be at full throttle to really hear the Blackwing's V8 engine, but it is a refined and powerful sound befitting a luxury performance sedan. There's a bit of road noise due to the performance tires but that's to be expected.

How’s the interior? The CT5's 33-inch new digital display goes a long way toward modernizing the Blackwing. The interior is simplified over previous models but remains easy to use. Our only real gripe is the somewhat befuddling steering wheel controls that plague all Cadillacs.

The CT5-V Blackwing is still a sedan, so it's easy for people of all ages and body types to slide into the comfortable seats. Only taller rear passengers might need to mind their heads. The front seats are well bolstered, supportive and comfortable over long distances, and the driver will enjoy highly adjustable seating and steering wheel positions. Visibility out of the front is excellent, and thanks to the slim profile of the front seats, it's quite good to the sides as well. The sloping roofline does pinch visibility out the back, but the optional digital rearview mirror helps to reduce blind spots.

How’s the storage? Storage might not be the first thing on a buyer's mind with a car like the CT5-V Blackwing, but it should be noted that at 11.9 cubic feet, the Cadillac offers far less trunk space than the M5. That said, the cargo area of the CT5-V Blackwing is uncomplicated and will hold suitcases without having to be creative with how you arrange them.

Interior storage isn't particularly generous either, especially around the manual gear lever. There are enough options for smaller items, like sunglasses and access cards, but larger water bottles and anything other than basic personal effects won't have a lot of places to fit. If you've got kids and use car seats, the CT5-V Blackwing has enough room in back to handle car seats of all sizes.

Is the CT5 a good value? If you value performance and the sheer joy of driving over luxury, the CT5-V Blackwing will seem like a bit of a bargain. It undercuts cars like the BMW M5 and the Audi RS 7 by tens of thousands of dollars and offers similar performance as well as the nearly extinct option of a six-speed manual transmission. But some potential buyers might balk at some of the car's interior materials or controls, which aren't as nice or upscale as those found in German sedans.

If you don't like what the CT5-V Blackwing has to offer, you might want to look into buying a bus pass. Blending comfort, usability, performance, and the option of a terrific six-speed manual transmission, this Cadillac is simply one of the best sport sedans ever built. A grown-up enthusiast's car if there ever was one, there's a level of maturity at play in the Blackwing that is difficult to comprehend but is readily apparent after only a short time behind the wheel. Capable of crushing a thousand miles of highway driving or all day at a racetrack, the CT5-V represents the high water mark for the American sport sedan.